Explore the City University of New York: A Complete Guide to All CUNY Colleges and What Makes Each Special
If you're considering public colleges in New York City, the City University of New York (CUNY) system offers a wide range of options. With 25 campuses across the five boroughs, each school provides unique programs, diverse student communities, and strong academic support.
This guide will walk you through the full list of CUNY schools, highlighting what sets each one apart. Whether you’re looking for a top liberal arts education, a technology-focused curriculum, or an affordable path to a degree, you’ll find a good match within the CUNY system.
Why Choose a CUNY College?
Choosing a CUNY school comes with several benefits that appeal to both local and out-of-state students. CUNY offers:
- Affordable tuition rates for in-state residents
- Diverse academic programs across disciplines
- Accessible campuses throughout New York City
- Strong job placement and professional development support
- Opportunities for scholarships and financial aid
All campuses offer a wide range of resources, including academic advising, tutoring services, and mental health support.
Senior Colleges in the CUNY System
CUNY has 11 senior colleges that grant bachelor's degrees and offer graduate-level programs. Each has its own strengths, culture, and specialized academic offerings.
Baruch College (Manhattan)
Known for business, public affairs, and liberal arts programs.
- Highly ranked Zicklin School of Business
- Prime location near Wall Street and Midtown
- Strong professional networking opportunities
Brooklyn College (Brooklyn)
Offers a beautiful campus and a wide variety of majors and programs.
- Well-regarded School of Visual, Media and Performing Arts
- Popular for Psychology, Education, and Film Studies
- Historic liberal arts education
City College of New York (CCNY) – Harlem
One of CUNY’s oldest colleges with a rich history of academic excellence.
- Notable for Engineering, Architecture, and Sciences
- Hosts the Center for Discovery and Innovation
- Distinguished alumni include Nobel Laureates
College of Staten Island (Staten Island)
The largest campus among all CUNY schools.
- Majors in Nursing, Education, and STEM
- Modern facilities in a suburban setting
- Affordable housing options on-campus
Hunter College (Manhattan)
Offers a strong liberal arts and sciences education.
- Top rankings in Nursing, Public Health, and Political Science
- Prestigious Silberman School of Social Work
- Committed to social justice and public service
John Jay College of Criminal Justice (Manhattan)
Ideal for careers in law, criminal justice, and forensic psychology.
- Leader in Forensic Science and Criminal Justice research
- Strong ties with NYPD and legal community
- Offers internships with city, state, and federal agencies
Lehman College (Bronx)
A well-established liberal arts college in the Bronx.
- Focused on Health Sciences, Education, and Public Administration
- Only CUNY college with a School of Continuing and Professional Studies
- Serving a diverse and driven student body
Medgar Evers College (Brooklyn)
Named after civil rights leader Medgar Evers, this college offers specialized programs for underserved communities.
- Focus on business, public health, and information systems
- Strong STEM and social justice initiatives
- Dedicated to student empowerment and community impact
New York City College of Technology (City Tech) – Brooklyn
The technology leader among CUNY colleges.
- Specializes in applied sciences, architecture, and engineering
- Cutting-edge labs and research centers
- Strong pathways into technical and healthcare careers
Queens College (Queens)
Offers a classic college campus experience with distinguished faculty.
- Known for Sciences, Education, and Music
- Hosts Aaron Copland School of Music
- Ranked highly for value and return on investment
York College (Queens)
Emphasizes health, business, and liberal arts programs.
- Home to CUNY Aviation Institute
- Features Nursing, Physician Assistant, and Occupational Therapy programs
- Focused on academic excellence and career readiness
Community Colleges in the CUNY System
CUNY operates 7 community colleges across the city. These schools offer associate degree programs and serve as a pathway to senior colleges or the workforce.
Borough of Manhattan Community College (BMCC)
- Largest CUNY community college
- Strong in liberal arts, business, and healthcare
- Located in Lower Manhattan with many internship options
Bronx Community College (Bronx)
- Popular for Automotive Technology, Nursing, and Engineering
- Historic campus with strong faculty support
- Home to the Hall of Fame for Great Americans
Guttman Community College (Manhattan)
- Innovative learning approach with high graduation rates
- Focus on first-year experience and customized learning plans
- Great fit for first-generation college students
Hostos Community College (Bronx)
- Strong programs in Allied Health and Liberal Arts
- Multicultural student body and bilingual instruction
- Supportive learning environment for adult learners
Kingsborough Community College (Brooklyn)
- Located near the beach in Brooklyn
- Programs in Nutrition, Theater, and Criminal Justice
- Only CUNY college with a Maritime Technology program
LaGuardia Community College (Queens)
- Recognized for innovation and workforce development
- Strong transfer rates to top senior colleges
- Over 60 associate degree and certificate programs
Queensborough Community College (Queens)
- Comprehensive educational offerings in arts, sciences, and technology
- Great pathways to four-year degrees
- Hosts Kupferberg Holocaust Resource Center
What Are the Best CUNY Schools for Specific Majors?
Each CUNY campus has specialties. Here’s a general guide to help you narrow your search:
- Business and Finance: Baruch College
- Engineering and Sciences: City College and City Tech
- Healthcare: Hunter College and Borough of Manhattan CC
- Criminal Justice: John Jay College
- Education: Queens College and Lehman College
- Arts and Humanities: Brooklyn College and Queens College
Frequently Asked Questions About CUNY Schools
Are CUNY colleges affordable?
Yes. In-state tuition is among the lowest in the country. Financial aid and scholarship options are widely available.
Can you transfer between CUNY schools?
Yes. CUNY has the Pathways program to support credit transfers among its campuses.
Which CUNY school is the easiest to get into?
Admissions standards vary. Community colleges generally have open enrollment, while senior colleges may have GPA and SAT requirements.
Are CUNY degrees respected by employers?
Absolutely. Many CUNY graduates hold leadership roles in science, business, law, and public service. The alumni network is strong across industries.
Choosing the Right CUNY School for Your Future
Finding your ideal college is about more than test scores and tuition. It’s about alignment with your passions, goals, and learning style. CUNY provides a range of choices—from academically rigorous senior colleges to supportive community campuses.
Each school offers unique strengths and career opportunities. Take time to explore campuses, meet advisors, and understand program offerings. With determination and the right plan, you can graduate from CUNY ready for the next big step in your journey.
